The Nigeria of my Dream

By Mayowa Odewoye


When you hear New Delhi, what comes to your mind? It means there was an old Delhi. The New Delhi did not come by mere wish or by fantasy. The New Delhi we see is a result of change in mind and attitude of the people of Delhi. It is a result of change in actions and approaches by the people of Delhi.

We want a Paradise Nigeria yet we employ the old and same approach, we want a Jerusalem in Nigeria yet we choose to be in our comfort zones. We want a New Nigeria yet we use the old cabals with archaic mind and selfish interest. We choose to be complacent when it is time to elect. Some are lured with stomach infrastructure package. Dino Melaye in his definition of greediocracy, Nigeria as a case study said " it is government by the greedy for the greedy and to the greedy" he further said " We leaders want to win election at all cost, so we spend money to win. The followership is also greedy, they accept money to vote" while admitting that the present leaders of this country (himself included) have failed this country.

That is the Nigeria we have found ourselves. Leaders want to win election, so they spend money, and followers too collect money from them. In disguise, they are paying for the votes they want. If the votes are not enough, they resort to the rigging techniques. The rigging is possible because of unused ballot papers available when the people fail to come to vote. Not voting is an avenue for riggers to rig.

I desire a Nation tho with people of different tribes but united in purpose. I desire a Nation tho with people of different races but united in positive attitude. I desire a Nigeria tho with people of different religions but united on the course of peaceful coexistence.


I desire a Nation where elected public official will be accountable to the electorates for their actions and inactions. I desire a Nigeria where the people will not be intimidated by the public officials; a Nigeria where every public official is accountable for his spendings. I desire a Nation where justice is not delayed; a Nation where justice is given in favour of the just. I know the Nigeria of my dream will be a reality someday.

Nigerians! Our hands should be on the table working to realize the Nigeria of our dream.